How To Find an Apartment

Determine your priorities—the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, how far you’re willing to commute, pet-friendliness, and amenities such as gyms, pools, and laundry facilities.

Research different neighborhoods. Find out the average rent; whether there are any parks; the kind of shops, clubs, and restaurants nearby; and whether traffic and parking is a problem.

Decide whether to use a broker. A broker can do a lot of the legwork for you; the downside is that in a big city it will cost you as much as 15% of your annual rent.

Check classified ads, both in print and online, to see what’s available and what the going rate is in a particular neighborhood. Get the earliest edition you can.

When you see a promising apartment listing, contact the landlord or property manager right away to set up an appointment.

Inspect the apartment. Dress professionally and act politely—you want to convey that you are responsible, serious, and will pay rent on time.

Make sure you understand the terms of the lease, such as when rent is due, the maintenance procedures, and if there’s a security deposit.

If you find an apartment you like, submit an application to the landlord or property manager immediately. Good apartments go quickly!

Assuming you’re accepted, negotiate to see if there’s any way to lower the cost, then sign the lease. Congratulations, you now have a new apartment!